November 25

After several very good but action-packed days, it was really great to just chill at home for most of this one.

Isaac went to a friend's house this afternoon, which gave Abby and Brady the chance to have some one-on-one (plus BearBear) sibling time. Although they mostly played video games, it was nice to see them interacting because as the oldest and the youngest, I think they have the fewest opportunities to connect.

As the sun dropped toward the horizon, we picked up Isaac from said-pal's house and drove to dinner at Black Bear. The restaurant was fully decked out for Christmas so there was a warm holiday feel to the air. So we arm wrestled and ate and chit-chatted. And it was good.

Abby heads back to Wheaton early in the morning. She doesn't love transitions or stress so I know she's not thrilled to be going back, but I also know that no matter where she goes, we're behind her. And more importantly, God is with her. So for the past week of having her back in the nest and for the knowledge that she's returning to live among friends who love and care for her, I am very grateful.